Motorcycle specifications KTM500 EXC Six Days 2012 1/2 liter of pure challenge

the 500 EXC "ready to race" for the world's biggest enduro championship, the famous "International Six Days Enduro". Six days in a row, over a thousand kilometers of terrain, 40 hours in the saddle: it's not just the rider who's put to the test. The 500 EXC can be prepared with a whole range of top-of-the-range accessories for this exceptionally tough race, at the start of which, every year, half the riders bet on KTM. The 500 EXC Six Days: the only genuine KTM factory orange frame.

new engine

In developing the new engine for the 500 EXC, KTM engineers have created a new dimension: the engine has been completely redesigned and is now even more compact, lighter and more powerful than ever. Reduced moving masses and a balancing shaft limit vibrations

new cylinder head

The OHC cylinder head of the new 500 EXC engine has been completely redesigned: all ducts and combustion chamber are new. The new camshaft drives four valves via lightweight rocker arms. The intake is operated by high-end titanium valves. As always, the cylinder head cover is tilted to facilitate maintenance work.

new cylinder and piston

The 500 EXC's cylinder has been specially resized for the new engine configuration. The new cast-iron piston, 15% lighter, reduces moving mass and optimizes high-speed stability. New nitrided rings ensure the highest wear resistance.

new crankcase

The 500 EXC's new crankcase weighs almost 2 kg (4 lb.) less than its predecessor, and is at the same time more resistant to stone chips and falls. This has been achieved through the use of a high-strength, elastic aluminum alloy, and by switching from sand casting to die-casting.

new balance shaft

The new lateral balancing shaft on the 500 EXC not only eliminates vibrations, but also drives the water pump. This intelligent concentration of tasks contributes to the compactness and reduced weight of the new 450 EXC engine.

new oil circuit

The new 500 EXC features a common oil circuit for the engine and gearbox, with two oil pumps. A pressure pump lubricates the engine, while a vacuum pump draws oil from the crankcase to lubricate the gearbox and clutch. A steel diaphragm creates a vacuum in the crankcase, providing additional engine power.

new electronic fuel injection / new electronic engine management

The new Keihin Engine Management System with electronic fuel injection ensures spontaneous engine response. An optional "Map Select" selector allows different engine characteristics to be activated.

new clutch

The 500 EXC's new clutch, with its robust steel housing and gear-saving anti-shock device, uses a disc spring for the first time instead of the usual spiral springs, considerably reducing activation effort. Brembo® hydraulic control allows sensitive modulation of the clutch.

new muffler

The new, improved muffler on the 500 EXC, with its special "Sixdays" lining, not only has more volume and a new design, it also reduces noise levels to meet future more stringent standards.

new frame

The completely redesigned frame in top-grade chrome-molybdenum steel boasts even greater lateral torsional rigidity. It also provides even better shock absorption, further enhancing the handling and comfort of the 500 EXC.

new swingarm, new PDS, new tuning

Lighter, the 500 EXC's new forged aluminum swingarm houses the shock absorber even more centrally, for better load distribution. The new PDS suspension, 7 mm (0.28 in) longer, with High-/Lowspeed rebound and compression damping adjustment, is mounted flatter, offering greater progression.

retuned telescopic fork

The 500 EXC is equipped with the latest WP inverted fork, with a wider adjustment range and a new focus. The sensitive response and excellent damping of the open cartridge fork with 48 mm (1.89 in) tubes contribute to the 500 EXC's extraordinary handling and precision.

new wheels

The new wheels could hardly be lighter and more stable, with their robotically treated hubs, Giant black anodized rims, black zinc/nickel-coated spokes and super-light aluminum nipples. This reduces unsprung weight and the gyroscopic effect, contributing to the 500 EXC's extraordinary manoeuvrability.

bodywork

The new bodywork of the 500 EXC, with its slim seat and spoiler lines and excellent contact points, further enhances ergonomics and makes it even easier and more precise to ride. The longer mudguard protects the rider even more effectively against stone chips.

features

- Handlebar-mounted map selector for choosing between different engine control diagrams

- Camel SXS saddle for long-distance comfort

- Heavy-duty plastic engine guards protect the engine and lower frame beams.

- Radiator fan to optimize temperature under extreme loads.

- Orange-anodized milled fork crowns for precise fit of fixed tubes to optimize fork glide.

- Quick-release kit for easy front-wheel removal

- Solid rear brake disc for improved heat retention and reduced pad wear.

- Rear disc guard to protect against mechanical damage to the disc

- Rear brake pad quick-release kit for quick pad changes without tools

- Aluminum rear chainring with riveted steel sprocket for reduced weight and greater strength.

- Wheels with extremely robust black anodized Giant rims and high-quality black zinc/nickel-coated spokes

- Six Days Graphics" design similar to KTM factory machines: orange powder-coated frame, orange anodized fork crowns, orange anodized handlebars and anthracite anodized silencer

Photos: KTM Powersports AG